The Fourth of July – a day filled with tons of family-oriented fun, dads huddled around a grill, and unfortunately, tons of safety concerns. With fireworks, grilling, and the summer heat, we have a few things to keep in mind. Now we shouldn’t let it ruin our day or make us afraid to do anything, but knowing about the concerns and preparing in advance can keep this amazing day stress-free.
In this article we will discuss the major types of summer safety concerns and how to properly mitigate or alleviate them altogether.
Let’s keep in mind that as fathers and parents, we have a significant impact on the day’s atmosphere. We can make it a day of joy and celebration for all while putting everyone’s safety first.
In This Article:
- Understanding The Risks
- Firework Safety
- Food Safety
- Heat And Hydration
- Water And Road Safety
- Our Thoughts
- Useful Resources
Understanding The Risks
The Fourth of July, although a blast, is not without its fair share of potential danger. Fortunately, we have this amazing tool to help us make it a lot safer and in turn a lot more fun. That power is Preparation. Knowing all of these risks beforehand can help keep the day stress free. It can also keep you from making an unwanted trip to the ER.
Just know that preparation will not alleviate all possible issues, but it does a really good job of mitigating most of them. Taking a few extra minutes to ensure safety in and around your home can keep your entire family engaged in having a great day. No need to create stress where it can be avoided.
Here are the major risks we are going to be covering in this article:
- Fireworks
- Food
- Heat
- Water (if near a lake or beach)
- Traveling
Now, there are probably a few more that you could add to this list, but I think this covers most people’s plans for the day.
Firework Safety
Let’s face it, a Fourth of July party wouldn’t be complete without the hypnotic glow of fireworks lighting up the night sky. It’s comparable to getting a burger without the patties, a pool without water, etc. But keep in mind that fireworks are not toys, however how beautiful they seem. They call for our respect and focus. They can quickly change from being a source of fun to a danger in the hands of those who lack knowledge.
Legal Considerations
It is crucial to know what your state’s views are on fireworks. It is also important to note that if you are traveling you need to follow that state’s guidelines. If you are from Louisiana and use fireworks all of the time, it does not mean that you can use the same ones in Arizona.
Please take a look at this image published by Reader’s Digest this year on all 50 states and their views on fireworks. If your state is green, please ensure that you check to make sure your specific County (or Parish) allows them as well.
Safe Handling and Launching
It’s similar to learning to drive in that there are regulations to go by, and doing so keeps everyone safe. We never ignite fireworks indoors, always keep a safe distance, never hold them in our hands, and we never light a failed firework again. And keep in mind that while saving fireworks for the holiday the following year may sound frugal, it also poses a safety risk!
Now for the kid’s turns. They watch in awe as we light fireworks and they are amazed when they go off in the air. So, it is only natural for a lot of them to want a part in that. It is our job as parents to ensure that we allow them to do so only when we know they are ready and when the firework type matches the age level. Starting them off with a sparkler is way better than, say, a bottle rocket. Even the sparklers can reach dangerous temperatures. Keeping an eye on your children at all times is a necessity for their safety.
Public Displays
Public displays that your local town or city put on are one of the safest ways for your family to enjoy fireworks. The shows are usually conducted far off and by trained professionals. This takes all of the risks for your family out of the equation. Plus, these fireworks are often much larger and cooler than anything we could ever do at home.
Food Safety
The Fourth of July simply wouldn’t be the same without the enticing aroma of barbecued foods drifting through the air and a variety of delectable delicacies that would make our founding fathers pleased. But here’s the catch: when we’re cooking up a feast for our loved ones, it’s critical to keep in mind that food safety should be the secret ingredient in every meal.
Handling and Preparation
Now, no one wants to remember Independence Day as the “Great Food Poisoning Fiasco of ’23”. So here’s how to avoid that.
You see, bacteria and germs are like those uninvited guests who just won’t leave, and they love to party in our food if given the chance. That potato salad sitting out in the sun? A bacteria buffet. The raw and cooked meats sharing the same plate? Cross-contamination chaos.
Remember, keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot. Additionally, when grilling, it’s important to ensure that your meal is cooked to the proper temperature to eliminate any undesired micro-crashers. Your food thermometer will be your sword in this conflict with the microorganisms.
One last thing, do not leave your food out all day after the feast. The CDC recommends two hours max outside and one hour if it is really hot. There are two reasons for this: (1) bacteria grow fast in the heat and (2) leftovers are amazing if stored properly!
Allergies
No matter if you are hosting or not, allergies can play a huge role in what dishes are cooked. It is important to know about your guests’ allergies beforehand just in case some of the allergies are serious.
If it is a large event with a ton of different food options, it may be a good idea to label your food with potential allergy concerns on it. Peanuts, gluten, and dairy are just a few to get your mind rolling.
Heat And Hydration
It is important to remember that while the sun offers beautiful weather for us to enjoy, it is still the sun. It packs quite a punch. Depending on where you live, this summer may be a little more brutal for you. This doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the weather, but we need to stay vigilant when we are out in the heat.
Heat Exhaustion
When you have been outside for a while, the sun is beating down on you, and you are doing tons of activities, heat exhaustion may sneak up on you. This is your body letting you know that you are overdoing it.
If you are someone you are with begins to look pale, is sweating profusely, and is very lethargic, finding a cool area quickly is a must. It is important to monitor these symptoms and if they persist to call or get them to medical help.
Hydration
Most of us do not drink as much water as we should normally. We do not drink as much water as we should in the heat. However, this is crucial to remain safe and healthy during the summer.
It is okay to have a soda here and there, but always be sure to follow it up with a few glasses of water.
Drinking water can help your body replenish liquids lost from sweating. It can also help you avoid dehydration which is not fun at all and can lead to pretty serious health concerns.
Related Article: Toddler Hydration
Sunscreen and UV Rays
Slather on a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and remember to reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming. Don’t forget your hat and sunglasses for added protection, and seek shade whenever possible. Loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing is also a great added protection when in the summer heat.
Water And Road Safety
The Fourth of July often calls for a refreshing splash in the pool or a scenic drive to celebrate the holiday with loved ones. But just like sunscreen protects us from harmful sun rays, we need to ensure that safety measures shield us when we’re diving into the water or hitting the highway. These may not apply to you depending on your plans, but they are still good for any occasion.
Water Safety
Water activities are a great way to cool off and make priceless memories, whether they take place in a tranquil lake, a backyard pool, or the thundering waves of the ocean. Without proper caution, though, they can become dangerous.
First, it’s crucial to keep in mind that our superhero cape when it comes to water is supervision. Even if your children are strong swimmers, you should always keep a close check on them. It’s important to maintain vigilance because drownings can occur suddenly and quietly.
If you’re in a natural body of water, be mindful of the conditions. Waves, currents, and underwater obstacles can pose challenges. And remember, even experienced swimmers can get caught off guard, so it’s a good idea to swim in designated areas with lifeguards when possible.
Road Safety
As we pack up our cars to visit family and friends, it’s essential to ensure that our vehicles are just as prepared for the journey as we are.
Before you embark on your trip, give your vehicle a good once-over. Check tire pressure, oil levels, and ensure your lights are working properly. It’s like a pre-flight check for pilots – a little precaution can prevent potential problems down the line.
While on the road, remember to take regular breaks to rest, especially if it’s a long drive. This is also good to keep in mind when you have little ones in car seats. It is a good idea to take a break more often to allow them a chance to stretch and get that energy out. Share the driving duties if you can, and if you’re tired, it’s a heroic act to pull over and rest.
Lastly, if you’re planning to celebrate with a few drinks, designate a sober driver. There’s no compromise here – buzzed driving is drunk driving, and that’s a risk we should never take.
Our Thoughts
I hope that this article has been beneficial for you and your family. Remember, just because this is for the Fourth of July, it does not mean these practices are a one and done thing. Keeping safety at the forefront of your event planning can keep things fun and stress-free.
Please refer to the useful resources section below for tons of great information about what we just discussed.
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Useful Resources
General Safety:
Firework Safety:
- National Safety Council – Fireworks Safety
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission – Fireworks Information Center
Food Safety:
Heat and Hydration Safety:
Water Safety:
Road Safety:
